Things to Do in Segovia

A landmark and the symbol of Segovia, the Aqueduct is a two storied aqueduct bridge which was named a World Heritage in the year 1985. It was built sometime during the latter half of the 1st century A.D. under the rule of the Roman Empire and was constructed to supply water from the Rio Frio River to the city. The pillars and arches of the two-storied tall Aqueduct are made of solid blocks of stone fit closely together with mortar. Trivia- the lower arches of the Aqueduct alternate in height according to the structure’s adaptation to the contours of the land. Extensive reconstruction has had taken place during the 15th and 16th centuries. The Aqueduct of Segovia is one of the most intact Roman aqueducts in Europe. A must see while touring Segovia.

Spread across 1500 acres, the gardens of the Royal Palace of La Granja de San Ildefonso deserve to be an independent tourist attraction!  Designed under the supervision of royal architect-designer Robert de Cotte, and actually undertaken by French architect Rene Carlier, the Jardines de la Granja de San Ildefonso has impressive fountains, beautiful sculptures and manicured lawns. 

The Alcazar of Segovia is a stone fortress situated in the old city of Segovia, Spain. Located atop Guadarrama Mountains, the construction of the Alcazar started sometime in the year 1120 and it was completed during the reign of Emperor Alfonso VIII. The fortress served as the official residence for the family of Emperor. Since then, the Alcazar has been uses as a royal palace, has housed the Royal Artillery College, a state prison and a military academy. Today, the magnificent fort is one of Spain’s major historical sites. A must see within the fort is the Hall of Ajimeces, the Hall of Kings and the Hall of the Throne.

Trivia- It is rumoured that this fortress was the inspiration behind Cinderella’s Castle in Disneyland!

Right at the heart of the city is the Plaza Mayor. A picturesque plaza, the place has quaint outdoor cafes and terrace bars, good souvenir shops and vendors, a wonderful atmosphere and it offers good views of the Segovia cathedral. Head over to grab a quick meal or for shopping.

The San Ildefonso o La Granja or the Royal Palace of La Granja de San Ildefonso is an 18th century palace situated around 12 kilometres from the city of Segovia. The palace used to be the summer residence of the kings of Spain. With baroque style architecture and beautiful and visually stunning interiors, the palace has now been converted into a museum. On display are royal items- from crockery and silverware to armoury to furniture to clothing.

Situated around 10-12 minutes walking distance from the old city centre, Iglesia de la Vera Cruz (Church of the True Cross) is an old yet splendid Romanesque church situated in lush green surroundings. It was constructed in the year 1208 by the Knights Templar to house a fragment of the True Cross. So, in actuality, the place is not a real church. It is sort of a shrine. The True Cross relic is now housed in a nearby village church at Zamarramala. The Vera Cruz has a 12-sided exterior with a tower on the south side. Within the structure is an unusual two-story gallery. It is said that this is where the Knights used to keep vigil over the holy fragment of wood.

An old Jewish quarter in Segovia, La Juderia has narrow picturesque streets, tapas bars, nice restored buildings, a museum and a synagogue. Head over to soak in the culture of the place.

A hidden gem, Monasterio de San Antonio El Real is a functioning church and a place of worship. It was built in the year 1455 by Henry IV. Having a serene atmosphere, the interiors of the church is a revelation! Beautiful frescos line the walls while the ceiling is done up with intricate detailing.

A beautiful meadow, the Mirador de la Pradera de San Marcos is a serene spot to have a nice little picnic with your family or loved one. Situated near the Vera Cruz, the meadow also offers gorgeous views of the Alcazar. Grab a few snacks, a water bottle and head over to Mirador de la Pradera de San Marcos to spend a leisurely evening in Segovia.

One of the oldest church in Segovia, the Iglesia San Millan or the Church of Saint Millan is a Romanesque church located outside of the old walls of Segovia. It was built between 1111 and 1124. While there, do check out the Romanesque figurative carvings.

Antonio Machado was a famous Spanish poet and one of the leading figures of the Spanish literary movement. From the year 1919 to the year 1932, he rented a room in a house on Desamparados street. Antonio Machado being an icon, the room was purchased by the Academy of History and Arts of San Quirce and they turned the house into a permanent remembrance of the poet. It is a museum of sorts where everything is as it was when the poet inhabited it- from the furniture he used to the photos he hung on the wall. A must visit for the fans and appreciators of Antonio Machado’s works.

Situated near the Alcazar, Real Casa de la Moneda is an old industrial building. It was built during the 16th century and operated as a Royal Mint between 1586 and 1869. The hydraulic machinery can still be found with the building. Converted into a museum, the building was awarded World Heritage designation by UNESCO.

The Segovia Cathedral situated in old city is the last Gothic cathedral built in Spain. The construction of the cathedral began on the orders of Charles V in the year 1525. However, the work finally got complete in the year 1768. Affectionately called la dama de las catedrales, Segovia Cathedral has a stunning Gothic exterior combined with marvellous interiors. Trivia- the gothic choir places in the centre of the cathedral predates the cathedral itself!